Contraception and abortion attitudes among military medical students: An exploratory study.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: To investigate military medical students' attitudes toward contraception and abortion after clerkships. STUDY DESIGN: We adapted a survey of civilian medical student attitudes for military students. We asked how clerkships changed perspectives and comfort discussing these topics. RESULTS: Eighty-five (85%) of 100 respondents felt more comfortable discussing contraception and abortion after clerkships. More students changed perspectives on contraception than abortion (29% vs 17%, p = 0.043). Students noted limited exposure to abortion. CONCLUSIONS: Clerkships increased comfort discussing contraception and abortion but were unlikely to change their attitudes. IMPLICATIONS More exposure to abortion care is needed.